Challenges inspire students to think creatively and reflect on their strategies. Having students build the tallest tower out of spaghetti and marshmallows or the most buoyant raft out of 10 sheets of paper allow students think critically. They need to make a plan, test out their ideas and revise their work.We are constantly pleading with students to double check their work. Rich challenges sparks students interest and help motivate them to work better. Students are able to apply a theory to real world examples. Students can be hands on and get immediate feedback if they are successful or still require help.
I am a huge believer that we are not teaching students to memorize mindless facts or preparing the for the weekly test. We are inspiring students to be live long learners, researchers, problem solvers, critiquers of knowledge, skeptics, innovators, critical thinkers, team players, presenters and individuals that disrupt the status quo (Be the Change). If students can walk away from my class understanding the learning skills and the Four C's (Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking & Creativity). The result of a test will not matter in 10 years, but the ability to collaborate well, gather information (not memorize a worksheet) and critically respond to information will help students for the rest of their life.
Below are some resources to support challenges in the class:
Curiosity Machine
10 Team Building Critical Thinking Questions
DIY.org
